Universe

Much of the world of <i>Steamworks &amp; Shadows</i>™ is based on actual earth history. Where we diverge from our own history is the discovery of aether in 1844 by Professor Jefferson August. This discovery led to the creation of airships and other advanced technology, creating the steampunk universe we call Steamworks &amp; Shadows.

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>In 1844, reports were made of meteorites falling all over the globe, containing strange rocks surrounded by bizarre phenomena of seemingly supernatural design. In June of that year, the world learned that these were just fragments of a larger meteor that was splintering and barreling towards Earth. After careful study of the fragments, Professor Jefferson August was certain that this was aether.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>When the largest part of the meteor fell, the United States government summoned Jefferson, Lord Anthony Summers, and Lieutenant William Wilkins to retrieve the aetherite from the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. </span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Jefferson constructed the Prometheus, an experimental mechanized submersible capable of holding himself, Lord Summers, and Wilkins and even with his designs and Lord Summers’ factory having built it, the Prometheus was nearly crushed in its descent. When they reached the meteor, the power within was able to stabilize the submersible’s systems and supercharge the engine. Witnessing firsthand the power of the aether to achieve the impossible, Jefferson grappled with the decision of whether or not to bring it to the surface. To much fanfare and praise, his did so. The meteorite was, in fact, the largest deposit of aetherite ever recorded, bringing the substance out of myth and into the public eye. </span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>The meteorite was shipped to August’s laboratory in Chicago for further study. Unknown to those transporting it, the meteorite leaked aetheric radiation as it traveled across the United States, transmuting other choice minerals and elements into aetherite. The smaller fragments of the meteorite that had fallen to earth first had similar effects across the globe, creating veins of aetherite in their wake.</span></span><span style=”font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.6em;”>[/expand]</span>